TŌRŌ
A Relaxing VR Gardening Experience
"Tōrō" is a relaxing VR experience set in a traditional Japanese garden. Players take on the role of a devout Buddhist who tends to the garden, collecting flowers and lighting the eponymous tōrō lanterns along the garden's path. This meditative game offers a serene and immersive escape into nature.
VR
Meditation
Relaxing
Single-Player
Project Info
Team size: 3
Duration: Oct-Dec 2023 (3 Months)
Tools & Platform: Unity, Quest 2
Level Design
Programming
Experience Design
Unity Development
My Contributions
-
Built a VR garden simulation level, crafting a spatially engaging environment that promotes relaxation.
-
Developed level layouts and terrain, guiding player movement through visual landmarks and interactive elements.
-
Scripted 3 core interactive mechanics, integrating player-driven interactions and environmental feedback.
Research
Meditation
Purpose: Research has shown mindfulness meditation is effective in reducing anxiety, blood pressure, and insomnia, and in helping people recover from substance use disorders – National Institute of Health
Process: Take a seat, set a time, notice your body, feel the sensation of breathing, and be kind to your wandering mind. – mindful.org
Historical and Cultural Background
There were three main Buddhist sects practiced during Tokugawa (Edo) Japan: Zen, Nichirin, and Jodo.
The Edo period in Japan was a peaceful period, so gardens were made more for aesthetics than those in past periods.
Environment Art Reference
Ghost of Tsushima - PlayStation, Sony Interactive Entertainment
Interaction Design
Walking
Move and walk around in the garden environment
Light Up Toros
Light up the stone lanterns using candle fire
Collect Flowers
Pick up, put, or throw the debris and objects on the walking path